DPS Seeks Leads in 1990 Murders of North Texas Brothers

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for the public’s help in solving the 1990 murders of two brothers – Derrick Jackson, 12, and James Edwards, 14 – in Vernon. As part of a DPS public awareness program, one unsolved case is featured by the Texas Rangers Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team each month in an effort to generate new investigative leads and bring added attention to unresolved or “cold cases” across the state.

In the early morning hours of Sept. 23, 1990, an intruder entered the apartment where Derrick and James lived with their mother, Linda Jackson. The intruder shot the two bothers while they slept and ultimately struggled with their mother, who was shot three times and survived. Another brother, Layman Jackson, 23, was in the home at the time and able to escape through a window unharmed.

The assailant was described as a black male, approximately 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a heavy build. Investigators believe a suspect in this case may have ties to Austin.

The Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation Team was created to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating unsolved murders or what appear to be serial or linked criminal transactions. Since there is no statute of limitations for the offense of murder, investigators pursue these cases to a successful resolution; or until no other lead is viable.

In addition, DPS created the Texas Rangers’ Unsolved Homicides webpage aimed at renewing public interest in unsolved cases. The site features more than 75 cases, including the division’s Top 12 Unsolved Cold Case Investigations. For more information, visit the Texas Rangers’ Cold Case website at: http://www.dps.texas.gov/TexasRangers/UnsolvedHomicides/index.htm.